Employment law changes - April 2026

Employment law changes

Employment law is changing in April 2026

Several important updates are on the way that will strengthen employee rights and introduce new responsibilities for employers. From day-one family leave to changes in Statutory Sick Pay, these reforms could have a real impact on workplaces across the UK.

Here are some of the key updates:

  • Day-One Family Leave - 

    Paternity leave and unpaid parental leave will become rights from the first day of employment.



  • Statutory Sick Pay Changes - 

    Statutory Sick Pay will be payable from day one of absence, removing the current three-day waiting period. The lower earnings limit will also be removed, widening eligibility for lower-paid workers.


  • Whistleblowing Protections Strengthened - 

    Reporting sexual harassment will be formally recognized as a protected disclosure.

  • Collective Redundancy Rules Updated - 

    The maximum protective award for failing to comply with collective redundancy consultation requirements will double from 90 to 180 days’ pay.



    These changes could have a significant impact on how businesses manage their workforce and employment policies.

    if you’d like advice on how these changes may affect your business, our Employment Law team at Foys Solicitors is here to help.

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